A unique community-driven initiative in Washington Heights has transformed a section of street into a popular water park this summer. Dubbed “Rio Manhattan,” the project is spearheaded by Alex Rolon, who has creatively opened a fire hydrant on the corner of 188th Street and Laurel Hill Terrace. This makeshift water attraction has drawn crowds looking to cool off as temperatures rise.
Over the past two months, Rolon has been operating this informal water park by releasing water from the hydrant, creating a flowing stream that resembles a lazy river. The setup has become a local sensation, attracting dozens of residents and visitors from nearby neighborhoods, as well as from as far away as Florida. Families gather to enjoy the refreshing water next to Highbridge Park, turning the area into a vibrant social hub.
Rolon, 45, described the experience as “organic,” noting how the community has rallied around the idea. “People love it because it’s community-made. Everybody here played a part in this,” he stated while overseeing the water flow. His social media presence has also surged, with videos showcasing the fun garnering tens of millions of views.
The concept took off after Rolon posted a humorous video in late June where he pretended to catch a dead horseshoe crab in the makeshift river. This clip alone received over 19 million views, prompting him to reopen the hydrant repeatedly. Young residents began arriving with bathing suits and pool floats, eager to splash around and enjoy the summer heat.
Community Engagement and Safety Measures
The tradition of opening fire hydrants in New York City dates back over a century as a means to provide relief from the summer heat. Yet, few installations have captured public attention like Rio Manhattan. As families and children joined in, local businesses supported the initiative. One shop owner even donated floaties for the community to use.
While city regulations typically prohibit opening hydrants for recreational purposes without a special spray cap, Rolon has managed to keep the operation running without interference. He noted that city agencies have not taken action against the setup, which remains popular. “We’re just having fun,” Rolon said, emphasizing the positive atmosphere. “We’re not hanging out late and stuff like that, we’re just doing it for the kids.”
The NYPD has reportedly been supportive of the water park, providing barricades to ensure safety and prevent vehicles from entering the area while children play. Rolon expressed his concerns about safety, saying, “My biggest fear was, God forbid one of the children step outside or get hit by a car.” Fortunately, local authorities have been cooperative, allowing the community to enjoy the space.
Despite the presence of the outdoor Highbridge Pool just 15 blocks away, many children, like Michael, a 10-year-old visitor, prefer the street splash pad. He explained, “Public pools are sometimes dirty in there, so this is why I just come to 188th [Street] to have fun.”
Future Plans for Community Activities
As summer comes to a close, Rolon is already considering ways to keep the community engaged. He hinted at potential winter activities, including the possibility of turning the space into a small skating rink. “I might turn it into a little skating rink and just ski all the way down the bike lane,” he shared, looking ahead to how the community can continue to come together.
The story of Rio Manhattan illustrates the power of community spirit and creativity. What began as a simple act of opening a hydrant has evolved into a cherished summer tradition, proving that sometimes the best experiences are those born from a desire to connect and have fun.